Opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye appeared in court today as his legal team pushed for a ruling on his habeas corpus application, demanding that authorities present him in court “dead or alive.”
Besigye, who has been on remand at Luzira Prison since November last year, was arrested in Nairobi alongside his aide, Obeid Lutale, and later charged with treachery.
In a court session closely watched by political observers, Besigye’s lawyers from Lukwago & Co. Advocates emphasized that his prolonged detention without trial is a violation of his constitutional rights.
Ms. Winnie Byanyima, Besigye’s wife, submitted an affidavit supporting his application, decrying his continued detention as unlawful and unjust.
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) also weighed in, arguing that habeas corpus applications should take precedence over other court matters, yet Besigye’s case has faced unnecessary delays.
“This is a grave injustice,” ULS stated, calling for disciplinary action against Justice Douglas Singiza, whom they accuse of disregarding the law.
Judiciary spokesperson Mr. Ereemye Mawanda, however, defended the delay, explaining that the legal process takes time. “There is filing, service of parties, and responses that must be considered. This process typically takes at least three weeks,” he said.
Meanwhile, concerns about Besigye’s health have grown after reports that he has been on a hunger strike. Over the weekend, he was briefly taken to a private clinic in Bugolobi for medical tests before being returned to prison.
Besigye’s legal team remains adamant that his detention is politically motivated. His next court appearance will be closely watched as the battle for his release continues.